Brodies and asbestos.

[ccmax]

Is there any truth to the information that the liners of Brodies contain asbestos? If so, which would be the proper way of safely storing and displaying them?

Thanks,

ccmax.

[lnijherald]

I seriously doubt it. But if it is true, don't cut, crush or damage any parts to avoid the release of small inhailable asbestos fibers.

Luc

[chippler]

I have heard that it is in fact old gas masks that contain asbestos? I sometimes see sellers on eBay with the masks on and it makes me cringe if it's true.

- Chris

[lnijherald]

Chris, you are right about old respirators. There is a thread on them.

Luc

[Mike39]

1st pattern brodies as well as some US helmets made by Brodie have asbestos sheets between the liner & the shell. I assume asbestos was fitted to help reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the wearer on hot days. I will try & take photo's of my examples to show the asbestos in place.
Simple common sence prevails when handling these helmets, don't disturb the asbestos & it shouldn't be a problem. If your really paranoid about it then wear an approved dust mask, but there is such a small amount in one helmet that unless your very careless, it's unlikely to cause you a problem.
i've owned helmets like this for 25 yrs & have no health issues as a result, although I am a non smoker. Thousands of veterans survived the war,. many died in their 80's & 90's plus. I doubt many died from asbestosis unless they worked with the stuff.
WW2 british gas masks / box respirators have asbestos filters. Once again, handle them with care ( and don't wear them ) & you shouldn't have any issues

Mike

[Mike39]

I've just had another look at my Brodie MkI's, MkII's & a couple of Doughboy helmets & they all have asbestos sheets between the liner & the shell.

Mike

[yellow]

The liner is infact three layer for the MKII:

1. Horsehair
2. Possible asbestos pad
3. Sack cloth which seals the pad inside.

If 2 is indeed asbestos it is sealed and like with any of these things dont go poking it.

If of course this is very worrying for you I know a few very helpful dealers who are more than willing to pay you 20 pounds for your mark II's

[Jean-Loup]

Asbestos is a probem for those who actualy worked with it for years and years. I seriously doubt any health issues could result from owning an asbestos helmet or gas mask; just like it isnt a problem to own a thermometer with mercury in it.

JL

[Mike39]

Exactly JL
It's probably more dangerous to have the new energy saver light bulbs in your house ( if you break one they release mercury vapour & seriously contaminate the room & everything in it ! ) than worrying about whats in a 90 year old helmet.

Mike